Why Do Compact Fluorescent Bulbs Contain Mercury?
Compact Fluorescent Bulb Basics Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are newer, smaller versions of the old fluorescent bulbs. They are designed to fit into the light sockets used by normal incandescent bulbs. Because fluorescent bulbs use less energy than incandescent, CFLs are being phased in and incandescent lights are being phased out. Like all fluorescent light bulbs, CFLs contain a trace amount of mercury, which is crucial to the operation of the bulb. Compact Fluorescent Lights Structure A compact fluorescent light is a bent tube with electrodes at either end. The tube is filled with argon gas and a small bit of mercury. When the CFL is turned on, electricity flows through the argon gas. Some of the individual electrons strike mercury molecules. When they do, the mercury molecules absorb energy from the electrons. Making Light The mercury then discharges this energy as a photon of ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet light is similar to visible light, but it is outside of the visibl
Related Questions
- Compact fluorescent lamps contain mercury, a hazardous material, conventional incandescent bulbs do not. If more compact fluorescent lamps are used, does it not mean more mercury pollution in the EU?
- Compact fluorescent lamps contain mercury, a hazardous material, incandescent bulbs do not. If more compact fluorescent lamps are used, does it not mean more mercury pollution in the EU?
- Why Do Compact Fluorescent Bulbs Contain Mercury?
